02/17/2026
Wilson Funeral Home honors the life and legacy of Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. — a towering figure in the American civil rights movement and a lifelong advocate for justice, equality, and economic empowerment.
Rev. Jackson began his national work alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., serving as a leader within the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) and playing an active role in the Poor People’s Campaign. In 1971, he founded Operation PUSH (People United to Save Humanity), later forming the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition, to advance civil rights, economic inclusion, and political empowerment for marginalized communities.
In 1984 and 1988, Rev. Jackson made history as one of the first African Americans to mount serious campaigns for the presidency of the United States, building what became known as the “Rainbow Coalition” — a diverse alliance of voters that reshaped American political strategy. His 1988 campaign won millions of votes and expanded national conversations about representation, voting rights, and economic justice.
Throughout his life, Rev. Jackson was a consistent voice for fairness in corporate America, education, voting rights, and international human rights efforts. His advocacy opened doors in boardrooms, ballot boxes, and communities across this nation.
We remember Rev. Jesse Jackson not only for the history he helped shape, but for the generations he inspired to pursue justice with courage and conviction. His legacy remains a powerful reminder that advocacy, faith, and perseverance can move a nation forw
